I cant seem to get my trunk to pop open. I press the button in the unlocked position and nothing clicks or releases. I also tried with the key in both positions. I thought it may be the cold but I ran hot water all over the edhes and lock assembly. Still nothing.

Use a flat-head screwdriver and pry the black covering of the trunk switch off. The actuator button underneath is small and white, push it in, and it should work. Otherwise it could be an electrial problem. Replace the black covering and make sure the gasket seals all the way around. This is probably why the switch is not working.

I am not sure if this will help but take it for whatever its worth-nothing to loose!

A. On 97 E39 the back seats do fold open in 2 sections. Is this an option on 1990 models? if so you couldn't ask for a better access to the trunk-at least to get your stuff out.

B. Emergency unlocking procedure: This has been used when SOME locked cars having a dead battery. AGAIN NOT SURE IF APPLICABLE TO YOURS; lift and hold the passenger side door handle then turn the key to position one; on several tries it will open (doors/trunk/gas cap cover).

C. Did you try the little button to the left of your foot rest (Adjacent to the hood release handle)??????

Lol Do you feel stupid or wot??? :lol: - Only joking, you live and learn don't you.

Bill I have heard of this emergency unlocking procedure before - You must have bloody long arms as the only lock on my e39 is on the drivers door, to turn the key in that and lift the passenger door handle would be impossible if you were in an emergency on your own.

Also I haven't got the folding rear seat - don't think my nice beamer with it's beautyful leather interior was designed for lugging lumber home from the DIY store, that's what the missus's golfs for!!!

I was extra carefull in saying it in CAPITAL LETTERS/in this reply IT IS UNDERLINED : This has been used when SOME locked cars having a dead battery. AGAIN NOT SURE IF APPLICABLE TO YOURS;

My E39 has no key hole on the left ; back seats fold down in two pieces; If want to see pictures; I'll post it!!

p.s. I am 6.1 so figure 1/2 of that is just about my arm's length!!
BillB

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I wasn't being pedantic - I have read posts where people are suggesting that unlocking procedure for e39. Also I know 5ers come with split folding seat, but that was a rather expensive option that mine doesn't have (though saying that we may have come to the good old US/UK spec thing here again), and again I repeat no lumber will ever touch my lovingly polished leather - She's a beamer, a high class exec mobile, not a "lil lugger".

I was extra carefull in saying it in CAPITAL LETTERS/in this reply IT IS UNDERLINED : This has been used when SOME locked cars having a dead battery. AGAIN NOT SURE IF APPLICABLE TO YOURS;

My E39 has no key hole on the left ; back seats fold down in two pieces; If want to see pictures; I'll post it!!

p.s. I am 6.1 so figure 1/2 of that is just about my arm's length!!
BillB

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I wasn't being pedantic - I have read posts where people are suggesting that unlocking procedure for e39. Also I know 5ers come with split folding seat, but that was a rather expensive option that mine doesn't have (though saying that we may have come to the good old US/UK spec thing here again), and again I repeat no lumber will ever touch my lovingly polished leather - She's a beamer, a high class exec mobile, not a "lil lugger".

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Beel Z
Are you suggesting a cultural clash in automobiles? I think it will be very/very long and very interesting topic. Should I post it as a new thread? Surely I volunteer for the opening statements! are you in?? While I love this European flavor, I am sure you will be cruising at this topic. E mail me if you wish.
regards
billb

Originally posted by billB@Oct 6 2004, 09:31 PMI am not sure if this will help but take it for whatever its worth-nothing to loose!

A. On 97 E39 the back seats do fold open in 2 sections. Is this an option on 1990 models? if so you couldn't ask for a better access to the trunk-at least to get your stuff out.

B. Emergency unlocking procedure: This has been used when SOME locked cars having a dead battery. AGAIN NOT SURE IF APPLICABLE TO YOURS; lift and hold the passenger side door handle then turn the key to position one; on several tries it will open (doors/trunk/gas cap cover).

C. Did you try the little button to the left of your foot rest (Adjacent to the hood release handle)??????

I am also having a problem opening my trunk('98 528i). The trunk motor spins and spins when I press key button,inside opener, or put
key in trunk keyhole. Trunk looks like it is partially open (not quite
colsed and not quite open).Any ideas on how to physically pop it open?! Thanks!